Bloomington Sacred Harp

Shape note singing in and around Bloomington, Indiana since ~ 1978

We meet on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays (and 5th Tuesdays if there is one) each month and All-Day Singings…

Hi! We’re a group of Sacred Harp singers in Bloomington, IN. Sacred Harp, or shape note singing, is a tradition that dates back to our country’s founding. We gather regularly to sing with and for each other, with no accompanying instruments. What does it sound like? Like nothing you’ve ever heard before. However, if you’re familiar with Bluegrass music, you may recognize some tunes like, “Wayfaring Stranger,” or hymns like “What Wondrous Love is This?” Tunes range in style from rousing and jubilent, to contemplative, to mournful. Ours is a tradition that emphasizes participation and we welcome you to come join us and, yes, we’ll loan you a book!

One more thing, you don’t need to have a trained or “good” voice, just the desire to sing and learn!

YES, we are meeting. Masks are optional, BUT do not come if you have flu symptoms or a fever. We can’t wait to see you!

Bloomington singings are currently held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday (and 5th if there is one!) of each month from 7-9 PM at the blue house on the corner of 6th and Jackson – address is 520 W 6th St, Bloomington, Indiana. Look for the orange sign at the gate and enter in the back door off Jackson Street.

New to Sacred Harp or “Shape Note” music? The best way to learn about this style is by attending an “All-Day Singing,” and one is about to happen…

The Swarens Memorial All-Day Singing is Saturday, March 23, 2024 from 9:30am-3pm with a potluck dinner on the grounds around noon. There will be a new location in Indianapolis at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 6050 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208. We will be singing from the Red Book (1991) and Shenandoah Harmony. Loaners are available. Contact Sarah at sahra.lynne@gmail.com for more info.

Plan to arrive at 9am to register and enjoy some breakfast treats. MAP: 6050 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208.

If you have limited time, we welcome visitors to simply stop by for as long as they choose.

Watch this video and interview with a member from the Bloomington group:

Loaner books are provided. We sing from both the 1991 revision The Sacred Harp and The Shenandoah Harmony. We even have some Cooper books we use periodically.

Two years ago, we sang at the Fountain Square Mall around Christmas time. Thanks to Randy West for the photos!

*Some photos posted by Ursula from our recent Rust Memorial All-Day Singing:
A few of us somehow still had voices after the 5-hour event!

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